There are two different sets of procedure in the state of Colorado that you must be aware of if you have been accused of a DUI. These are your judicial and your administrative procedures.
It is important to consult with a Colorado DUI attorney immediately so that you can avoid many of these consequences or at least be clear about your administrative license revocation procedures. Many people choose to focus only on the criminal aspects of their DUI allegation and this can leave off the opportunity to gain benefits of your administrative license revocation procedures. Colorado is one of 42 states across the country that has implemented interlock procedures.
This means that your license can be confiscated right away if your blood alcohol content is higher than 0.08 or if at the scene of the allegation, you refused a BAC test. Your license will either be revoked or suspended at that point even though you were not formally convicted in a criminal trial. You could also be charged with an administrative license suspension even in cases in which you are not later charged with a driving under the influence allegation.
These actions are designed to be separate from and in addition to your traditional DUI conviction penalties such as jail time, license suspension, the mandate of an ignition interlock device, jail time and drug and alcohol rehabilitation.
You may be eligible to receive a temporary driving permit for a 7-day grace period and during this time you can also request a hearing to challenge your case. It is important to retain an attorney if you intend to challenge your case as this will be your only opportunity to protect your administrative rights.
If you have an ignition interlock, you’re responsible for having it installed, dealing with any maintenance issues, and paying any fees around it.